The Paperboy

Another John Cusack film back-to-back for me and joining in on the film-fun was English David Oyelowo whom you may recall from 'Jack Reacher', porcelain and extra-fun character Charlotte Bless played by Aussie' Nicole Kidman, ever-southern yet outstanding performance by Mathew McConaughey and the handsome "High-school dancer" now "swimmer" and 'The Paper Boy' Zac Efron. And how can we forget our narrator and voice of reason - a natural in front of the camera, 'singer-turned actress' Macy Gray.

This 2012 American-thriller written by Pete Dexter who won an award for his 1991 novel turned movie 'Paris Trout' and known for other beloved works like 'Michael' starring John Travolta, had his story adapted into screenplay by Lee Daniels who also directed this film. Lee Daniels who is known for producing gritty and disturbing films like 'Monster's Ball' starring Halle Berry and 'Precious' starring Gabourney Sidibe pivoting both actress' into Academy Award nominations and hall of fame, intended to do just that for this steamy and equally alarming story.

My favourite part of this film were the camera-angles which were fluid and propped in the most natural and un-natural of positions, it made for it's viewers feeling even closer to the characters and what was going on in the story. I felt the acting was strong aside from the occasional smirks shown by Efron (but who could blame him because of the very many not-intended yet comical parts in this film). The story was far-fetched and utterly abominable but believable characters, and behaviour of people living in Florida during that time, and probably a little still today.

Rated R for some of the most nauseating sexual content, violence and language, it's not a film for family-fun. With a budget of $12 million USD and not making much back at the box-office and notwithstanding it's dismal and simple ambitions, it still has all the makings of Academy Award nominations. 

The Factory

This 2012 Crime-mystery-thriller caught my eye because of the talented chameleon of an actor Jennifer Carpenter starring in this role. She shines alongside acting veteran John Cusack whom you may remember from 'Being John Malkovich' and '1408' with Samuel L. Jackson. Written by Aussie Paul Leyden and Morgan O'Neill, and directed by Morgan O'Neill this film was a ride into a dangerous obsession that had no end. 

With a budget of a surprising $25 million USD it isn't sure that they made it all back at the box-office and I am pretty sure they did not win any awards or nominations. Filmed in Montreal and Quebec Canada, this film had not only snow, to set the mood of the cold and troubling subject matter based on true events but also interesting and dark camera angles.

Enough to grip you the fact that it was based on a true story, and riveting at the beginning but somehow it didn't pay off towards the end. It was slow to unfold but a rush at the end, which means it was probably a late-resolving plot agreement by the film-making team. Decent acting, but not a desirable culmination for it's audience.

John Cusack, Jennifer Carpenter, big budget but unfortunate blunder.

Cracks

** When its over. And the heart breaks. Walk Away. And the cracks begin to show...**~ Pretty decent acting in this video also - Enjoy ;))

After Earth Interview

** It's wonderful to see how mature and wise Will Smith is. Forget the Ego. Do what you Love. And you must give to receive! ~ Can't wait to see this movie!!! :))

House at the End of the Street

I have to say, not at all what I expected; I honestly had doubts on this one, but thought I'd at least give it a whirl seeing it starred talented angel-faced Oscar-winner Jennifer Lawrence and all. I have three words to describe this film. Intense, intense, intense! I love a good horror film and this one delivers to my liking; one of the better horror films out there. Non-predictable, action-packed and riveting, the audience is teased into the mysterious and slow turn of events.

Written by David Loucka and Jonathon Mostow and directed by Mark Tonderai, and with a budget of $6 million USD this 101 minute 2012 thrilling film exposes dismay, eerie secrets and phycological commotion. Starring Elissa played by Jennifer Lawrence, Max Thieriot who plays Ryan and Sarah played by Elisabeth Shue this film had a decent performance at the panic that slowly expanded. Introducing new-comer Eva Link who gave a delightfully harrowing execution, I think the only thing that rang a bell from another story would be the name of the character she played, "Carrie-Anne".

The film was beautifully shot in Ottawa Canada with unique camera angels throughout but also shot in 2-pert Techniscope format which provided the look of older horror films and gave the appearance of grainy images. Although there was not much buzz about this film when it was released, it more than quadrupled it's initial budget in just 3 months that same year. Backed by Relativity Media, FilmNation Entertainment and a Bigger Boat Production just to name a few and by scores of others internationally this story was compelling enough to receive 1 win and 2 other nominations.

Certainly what the doctor would order for a terrifying night of fun! :)

Life Happens

This 2011 comedy written by friends Kat Coiro and Krysten Ritter and directed by Kat Coiro was a simple story about how situations change, friends change, and the future or what you think is never as you expect it. Interesting group of characters, all not completely necessary to move the story along but entertaining nonetheless. Very reminiscent of 'What to Expect When You're Expecting' aside from it being all about a bit younger generation.

Some familiar faces grace the screen like blue-eyed-brown-eyed goddess Kate Bosworth, funny-beauty Krysten Ritter, and California girl Rachel Bilson. Also some new faces and appearances by Fallon Goodson, Rhys Coiro (Kat Coiro's brother) and Lauren Conrad  in that order. Although great story line and some heart (but mostly due to the change in music), I felt that this film's character's were one-dimensional and lacked depth to allow the audience to truly identify or feel for our main characters.

With a budget of $930,000 and backings by production companies like 'Stardust' and 'Dot Dot Dot Productions' this film although 'laugh-worthy' didn't make it big at the box-office or become buzz-worthy for awards or nominations. It flowed nicely and was well shot but lacked depth and inspiring message. Pretty much to be expected in most Hollywood Films - the movie's first line being - "Do you have a condom?"

Inside & Out

** Your kisses taste like CANDY! :))